Team Leader – Pathogens
At ALS, we encourage you to dream big. When you join us, you'll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data‑driven insights to build a healthier future.
About the Position
Days Per Week: 4 on 4 off (9am to 9pm)
Basis: Permanent, Full Time
Annual Salary: £29,366 per annum
Day to Day Responsibilities
* Lead and support laboratory activities relating to pathogen testing and microbiological investigations.
* Organise and manage team workloads to ensure business targets and client deadlines are achieved.
* Perform and oversee microbiological testing with competency in Total Viable Count, Bacillus, Coagulase Positive Staphylococci, Clostridium, Listeria, Yeasts and Moulds.
* Monitor laboratory systems to ensure all tests and processes are completed within agreed turnaround times.
* Oversee registration review for all samples, ensuring appropriate tests, methods, media and dilutions are selected, providing guidance where required.
* Operate, clean, maintain and interpret data from laboratory equipment, including ELISA and MALDI TOF, in line with procedures and manufacturer guidance.
* Perform biochemical confirmation stages with competency for Listeria, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus.
* Carry out investigative microbiology using purification and isolation techniques.
* Perform biochemical testing, including API identification methods, in accordance with validated procedures.
* Handle, prepare and dilute cultures in line with laboratory procedures and quality standards.
* Organise and monitor routine Quality Management tasks.
* Ensure retests or additional testing on retained samples are completed within required timeframes.
* Support laboratory management with results approval and issuing out of specification reports.
* Provide technical guidance, training and support to laboratory team members to maintain competence and flexibility.
* Assist with troubleshooting, investigations and continuous improvement initiatives within the laboratory.
* Monitor timekeeping, absence and behaviour within the team, escalating concerns where necessary.
* Ensure all work complies with HSE, Quality, Regulatory and Accreditation requirements, including internal ALS policies and procedures.
* Promote a strong health and safety culture, reporting incidents and near misses and addressing unsafe practices promptly.
Requirements
* 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) including Science, English and Mathematics.
* Proven experience working within a microbiology and/or pathogen laboratory environment.
* Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of microbiological techniques and pathogen testing methodologies.
* Demonstrated competency in biochemical confirmation and investigative microbiology.
* Experience using ELISA, MALDI TOF, and biochemical identification methods.
* Proven organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workload and work on your own initiative.
* High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
* Confident written and verbal communication skills.
* Proficient user of Microsoft Office and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
* Sound understanding of Quality Assurance, with experience working to ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025:2017 standards.
* Demonstrated commitment to continual learning and the development of both self and team.
* Clear understanding of occupational health and safety requirements, including PPE compliance and incident reporting.
* Knowledge of food microbiology practices is desirable.
Benefits
* Annual Leave commencing at 20 days.
* Ability to buy additional annual leave.
* Enhanced Company Sick Pay Scheme.
* Salary Progression Scheme based on technical and behavioural competencies.
* Value Awards recognition scheme.
* Perkbox membership providing access to discount vouchers and wellbeing hub.
* Learning and study support.
* Group Personal Pension Plan.
* On site car parking.
Equal Opportunity Statement
ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued. ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process are available upon request.
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